Best travel credit cards in Canada of 2024
Fact Checked: Scott Birke
Updated: November 06, 2024
Using the best travel credit card for everyday purchases really can get you flying faster.
Looking for the best travel credit card in Canada? Whether you’re a bargain hunter, snowbird, frequent flyer or bonus surfer, we’ve handpicked the best card for travel rewards (part of our bigger Best Credit Cards Canada list) to help you fly and stay for less (or for free!).
Best travel credit card overall
CIBC Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card
4.5
up to 40K pts
Welcome offerVery Good
Suggested credit scoreJoin and get up to $1,100 in value in your first year!†
Pros
-
Earn up to 40,000 bonus Aeroplan points in the first year
-
Earn up to 1.5 Aeroplan points on purchases
-
Free checked bags on Air Canada flights
-
Special pricing on Aeroplan flight rewards
-
Includes travel insurance
Cons
-
High income requirement of either $60,000 personal or $100,000 household
-
Rewards go furthest when redeeming for Air Canada flights, so that can limit your travel options
Eligibility
Very Good
Recommended Credit Score
$60,000
Required Annual Personal Income
$100,000
Required Annual Household Income
Recommended Credit Score
Very Good
Required Annual Personal Income
$60,000
Required Annual Household Income
$100,000
1.5 pts
for every $1 you spend on eligible gas, electric vehicle charging, groceries and with Air Canada directly, including through Air Canada Vacations®
1 pt
for every $1 you spend on all other purchases.
2x
Earn points twice at over 150 Aeroplan partners and more than 170 online retailers through the Aeroplan eStore.
for every $1 you spend on eligible gas, electric vehicle charging, groceries and with Air Canada directly, including through Air Canada Vacations®
1.5 pts
for every $1 you spend on all other purchases.
1 pt
Earn points twice at over 150 Aeroplan partners and more than 170 online retailers through the Aeroplan eStore.
2x
20.99%
Purchase APR non-Quebec residents†
22.99%
Balance Transfer Rate 21.99% for Quebec residents
22.99%
Cash Advance APR 21.99% for Quebec residents
$139
Annual Fee Free with CIBC Smart Plus™ Account. $50 for each additional card (up to 3).
2.5%
Foreign Transaction Fee 2.5% of the transaction in CDN
Purchase APR
20.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
22.99%
Annual Fee
$139
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.5%
Pros
-
Earn up to 40,000 bonus Aeroplan points in the first year
-
Earn up to 1.5 Aeroplan points on purchases
-
Free checked bags on Air Canada flights
-
Special pricing on Aeroplan flight rewards
-
Includes travel insurance
Cons
-
High income requirement of either $60,000 personal or $100,000 household
-
Rewards go furthest when redeeming for Air Canada flights, so that can limit your travel options
Eligibility
Very Good
Recommended Credit Score
$60,000
Required Annual Personal Income
$100,000
Required Annual Household Income
Recommended Credit Score
Very Good
Required Annual Personal Income
$60,000
Required Annual Household Income
$100,000
1.5 pts
for every $1 you spend on eligible gas, electric vehicle charging, groceries and with Air Canada directly, including through Air Canada Vacations®
1 pt
for every $1 you spend on all other purchases.
2x
Earn points twice at over 150 Aeroplan partners and more than 170 online retailers through the Aeroplan eStore.
for every $1 you spend on eligible gas, electric vehicle charging, groceries and with Air Canada directly, including through Air Canada Vacations®
1.5 pts
for every $1 you spend on all other purchases.
1 pt
Earn points twice at over 150 Aeroplan partners and more than 170 online retailers through the Aeroplan eStore.
2x
20.99%
Purchase APR non-Quebec residents†
22.99%
Balance Transfer Rate 21.99% for Quebec residents
22.99%
Cash Advance APR 21.99% for Quebec residents
$139
Annual Fee Free with CIBC Smart Plus™ Account. $50 for each additional card (up to 3).
2.5%
Foreign Transaction Fee 2.5% of the transaction in CDN
Purchase APR
20.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
22.99%
Annual Fee
$139
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.5%
†Terms and Conditions Apply
The information for the CIBC Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card has been collected independently by Money.ca. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Best travel credit card for first-year value
Scotiabank Platinum American Express® Card
4.4
up to 60K pts
Welcome offerGood
Suggested credit scoreEarn up to $2,100* in value in the first 14 months, including up to 60,000 bonus Scene+ points
Expires
Jan 3, 2025
Pros
-
The card offers a competitive low interest rate on purchases, cash advances, and balance transfers
-
Comprehensive insurance coverage
-
Complimentary Airport lounge access
-
No foreign transaction fees
-
Ideal for travelers as it has no foreign transaction fees
-
Offers a substantial welcome bonus that can be worth up to 60,000 Scene+ points
-
Enjoy premium perks like Hertz #1 Club Gold membership and concierge services.
Cons
-
High annual fee: At $399, the annual fee is steep, which could offset the rewards and benefits for some cardholders
-
Below average rewards rate: Lower compared to other cards with similar or lower annual fees
-
Limited American Express acceptance: Especially outside major cities
-
Rewards potential: The net rewards potential is relatively low when considering the high annual fee
-
Non-transferable points: Scene+ points cannot be transferred to other rewards programs
Eligibility
Good
Recommended Credit Score
$12,000
Required Annual Personal Income
Recommended Credit Score
Good
Required Annual Personal Income
$12,000
2x
Scene+ points for every $1 spent on all other eligible purchases
0%
No foreign transaction fees
10
Complimentary airport lounge passes per year
Scene+ points for every $1 spent on all other eligible purchases
2x
No foreign transaction fees
0%
Complimentary airport lounge passes per year
10
9.99%
Purchase APR
9.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
9.99%
Cash Advance APR
$399
Annual Fee
0%
Foreign Transaction Fee No foreign transaction fee
Purchase APR
9.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
9.99%
Cash Advance APR
9.99%
Annual Fee
$399
Foreign Transaction Fee
0%
Pros
-
The card offers a competitive low interest rate on purchases, cash advances, and balance transfers
-
Comprehensive insurance coverage
-
Complimentary Airport lounge access
-
No foreign transaction fees
-
Ideal for travelers as it has no foreign transaction fees
-
Offers a substantial welcome bonus that can be worth up to 60,000 Scene+ points
-
Enjoy premium perks like Hertz #1 Club Gold membership and concierge services.
Cons
-
High annual fee: At $399, the annual fee is steep, which could offset the rewards and benefits for some cardholders
-
Below average rewards rate: Lower compared to other cards with similar or lower annual fees
-
Limited American Express acceptance: Especially outside major cities
-
Rewards potential: The net rewards potential is relatively low when considering the high annual fee
-
Non-transferable points: Scene+ points cannot be transferred to other rewards programs
Eligibility
Good
Recommended Credit Score
$12,000
Required Annual Personal Income
Recommended Credit Score
Good
Required Annual Personal Income
$12,000
2x
Scene+ points for every $1 spent on all other eligible purchases
0%
No foreign transaction fees
10
Complimentary airport lounge passes per year
Scene+ points for every $1 spent on all other eligible purchases
2x
No foreign transaction fees
0%
Complimentary airport lounge passes per year
10
9.99%
Purchase APR
9.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
9.99%
Cash Advance APR
$399
Annual Fee
0%
Foreign Transaction Fee No foreign transaction fee
Purchase APR
9.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
9.99%
Cash Advance APR
9.99%
Annual Fee
$399
Foreign Transaction Fee
0%
Best Canadian Aeroplan points credit card
TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card
4.0
up to 40K pts
Welcome offerExcellent
Suggested credit scoreEarn up to $1,300 in value† including up to 40,000 Aeroplan points† and no Annual Fee for the first year†. Conditions Apply. Account must be approved by January 6, 2025.
Expires
Jan 6, 2025
Pros
-
The card has a high earn rate for Aeroplan Points, generating 1.5 points† per $1 spent on eligible purchases.
-
Insurance offered includes coverage in the categories that travellers need, and is generally better than its Aeroplan peers at a similar annual fee level.
Cons
-
No airport lounge membership or free lounge access.
-
Aeroplan points can’t be redeemed for flights outside the Star Alliance network, nor can they be redeemed for cash credit. This makes them less flexible than some competing travel rewards programs.
Eligibility
Excellent
Recommended Credit Score
$60,000
Required Annual Personal Income
$100,000
Required Annual Household Income
Recommended Credit Score
Excellent
Required Annual Personal Income
$60,000
Required Annual Household Income
$100,000
1.5 points†
for every $1 spent on eligible gas, grocery and direct through Air Canada® purchases (including Air Canada Vacations®)
1 point†
Earn 1 point for every $1 you spend on all other purchases
2x
Earn points twice with Aeroplan partner brands and on the Aeroplan eStore.
50%
Earn 50% more Aeroplan points at Starbucks when you link your card to your account. Conditions apply.
1
NEXUS application fee rebate every 48 months†
1st
checked bag free for you and up to 8 travel companions†
for every $1 spent on eligible gas, grocery and direct through Air Canada® purchases (including Air Canada Vacations®)
1.5 points†
Earn 1 point for every $1 you spend on all other purchases
1 point†
Earn points twice with Aeroplan partner brands and on the Aeroplan eStore.
2x
Earn 50% more Aeroplan points at Starbucks when you link your card to your account. Conditions apply.
50%
NEXUS application fee rebate every 48 months†
1
checked bag free for you and up to 8 travel companions†
1st
20.99%
Purchase APR APR for purchases 20.99%†
22.99%
Balance Transfer Rate APR for balance transfers 22.99%†
22.99%
Cash Advance APR APR for cash advances 22.99%†
$139
Annual Fee Additional cardholder is $75† ; Get an annual fee rebate for the first year†
2.5%
Foreign Transaction Fee Foreign transaction fee: 2.50%†
Purchase APR
20.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
22.99%
Annual Fee
$139
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.5%
Pros
-
The card has a high earn rate for Aeroplan Points, generating 1.5 points† per $1 spent on eligible purchases.
-
Insurance offered includes coverage in the categories that travellers need, and is generally better than its Aeroplan peers at a similar annual fee level.
Cons
-
No airport lounge membership or free lounge access.
-
Aeroplan points can’t be redeemed for flights outside the Star Alliance network, nor can they be redeemed for cash credit. This makes them less flexible than some competing travel rewards programs.
Eligibility
Excellent
Recommended Credit Score
$60,000
Required Annual Personal Income
$100,000
Required Annual Household Income
Recommended Credit Score
Excellent
Required Annual Personal Income
$60,000
Required Annual Household Income
$100,000
1.5 points†
for every $1 spent on eligible gas, grocery and direct through Air Canada® purchases (including Air Canada Vacations®)
1 point†
Earn 1 point for every $1 you spend on all other purchases
2x
Earn points twice with Aeroplan partner brands and on the Aeroplan eStore.
50%
Earn 50% more Aeroplan points at Starbucks when you link your card to your account. Conditions apply.
1
NEXUS application fee rebate every 48 months†
1st
checked bag free for you and up to 8 travel companions†
for every $1 spent on eligible gas, grocery and direct through Air Canada® purchases (including Air Canada Vacations®)
1.5 points†
Earn 1 point for every $1 you spend on all other purchases
1 point†
Earn points twice with Aeroplan partner brands and on the Aeroplan eStore.
2x
Earn 50% more Aeroplan points at Starbucks when you link your card to your account. Conditions apply.
50%
NEXUS application fee rebate every 48 months†
1
checked bag free for you and up to 8 travel companions†
1st
20.99%
Purchase APR APR for purchases 20.99%†
22.99%
Balance Transfer Rate APR for balance transfers 22.99%†
22.99%
Cash Advance APR APR for cash advances 22.99%†
$139
Annual Fee Additional cardholder is $75† ; Get an annual fee rebate for the first year†
2.5%
Foreign Transaction Fee Foreign transaction fee: 2.50%†
Purchase APR
20.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
22.99%
Annual Fee
$139
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.5%
Best Canadian travel credit card with a modest annual fee
CIBC Aventura® Gold Visa* Card
4.9
up to $1,300
Welcome offerGood
Suggested credit scoreJoin and get up to $1,300 in value†! And get a one-time annual fee rebate.
Pros
-
High value welcome offer
-
Minimal household annual income required
-
Exceptional points-redeemable travel opportunities and other perks
Cons
-
High annual fee (rebated for your first year)†
Eligibility
Good
Recommended Credit Score
$15,000†
Required Annual Personal Income
$15,000†
Required Annual Household Income
Recommended Credit Score
Good
Required Annual Personal Income
$15,000†
Required Annual Household Income
$15,000†
2
Earn 2 points for every $1 spent on eligible travel purchased through the CIBC Rewards Centre†
1.5
points for every $1 spent at eligible gas stations, EV charging, grocery stores and drug stores†
1
point for every $1 spent on all other purchases†
Earn 2 points for every $1 spent on eligible travel purchased through the CIBC Rewards Centre†
2
points for every $1 spent at eligible gas stations, EV charging, grocery stores and drug stores†
1.5
point for every $1 spent on all other purchases†
1
20.99%†
Purchase APR non-Quebec residents†
22.99%†
Balance Transfer Rate 21.99% for Quebec residents†
22.99%†
Cash Advance APR 21.99% for Quebec residents†
$139
Annual Fee First year annual fee rebate!†
2.5%
Foreign Transaction Fee 2.5% of the transaction in CDN
Purchase APR
20.99%†
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%†
Cash Advance APR
22.99%†
Annual Fee
$139
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.5%
Pros
-
High value welcome offer
-
Minimal household annual income required
-
Exceptional points-redeemable travel opportunities and other perks
Cons
-
High annual fee (rebated for your first year)†
Eligibility
Good
Recommended Credit Score
$15,000†
Required Annual Personal Income
$15,000†
Required Annual Household Income
Recommended Credit Score
Good
Required Annual Personal Income
$15,000†
Required Annual Household Income
$15,000†
2
Earn 2 points for every $1 spent on eligible travel purchased through the CIBC Rewards Centre†
1.5
points for every $1 spent at eligible gas stations, EV charging, grocery stores and drug stores†
1
point for every $1 spent on all other purchases†
Earn 2 points for every $1 spent on eligible travel purchased through the CIBC Rewards Centre†
2
points for every $1 spent at eligible gas stations, EV charging, grocery stores and drug stores†
1.5
point for every $1 spent on all other purchases†
1
20.99%†
Purchase APR non-Quebec residents†
22.99%†
Balance Transfer Rate 21.99% for Quebec residents†
22.99%†
Cash Advance APR 21.99% for Quebec residents†
$139
Annual Fee First year annual fee rebate!†
2.5%
Foreign Transaction Fee 2.5% of the transaction in CDN
Purchase APR
20.99%†
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%†
Cash Advance APR
22.99%†
Annual Fee
$139
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.5%
†Terms and Conditions apply
The information for the CIBC Aventura® Gold Visa* Card has been collected independently by Money.ca. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. This offer is not available for residents of Quebec. †Terms and conditions apply.
Best Canadian travel credit card for lounge access
BMO Ascend™ World Elite®* Mastercard®
4.5
up to 90K pts
Welcome offerExcellent
Suggested credit scoreGet up to 90,000 points and the annual fee waived in your first anniversary for both the primary cardholder and authorized users.*
Expires
Nov 30, 2024
Pros
-
High-value welcome offer
-
Flexible airport lounge access
-
BMO Rewards points can be used to cover flight taxes and fees
-
Great for those who frequently rent cars
-
Good for Costco and No Frills shoppers
Cons
-
So-so earn rates relative to its annual fee
-
Points have low redemption value compared to other travel rewards programs
-
Charges foreign transaction fees
-
Relatively high minimum income requirements
Eligibility
Excellent
Recommended Credit Score
$80,000
Required Annual Personal Income
$150,000
Required Annual Household Income
Recommended Credit Score
Excellent
Required Annual Personal Income
$80,000
Required Annual Household Income
$150,000
5x
Earn 5x the points for every $1 spent on eligible travel purchases*
3x
Earn 3x the points for every $1 spent on eligible dining and entertainment purchases and recurring bill payments*
1x
Earn 1 point for every $1 spent everywhere else*
4
Complimentary membership in Mastercard Travel Pass provided by DragonPass, with 4 annual complimentary passes
Earn 5x the points for every $1 spent on eligible travel purchases*
5x
Earn 3x the points for every $1 spent on eligible dining and entertainment purchases and recurring bill payments*
3x
Earn 1 point for every $1 spent everywhere else*
1x
Complimentary membership in Mastercard Travel Pass provided by DragonPass, with 4 annual complimentary passes
4
20.99%
Purchase APR
23.99%
Balance Transfer Rate 21.99% for Quebec residents
23.99%
Cash Advance APR
$150
Annual Fee first year waived
2.5%
Foreign Transaction Fee
Purchase APR
20.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
23.99%
Cash Advance APR
23.99%
Annual Fee
$150
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.5%
Pros
-
High-value welcome offer
-
Flexible airport lounge access
-
BMO Rewards points can be used to cover flight taxes and fees
-
Great for those who frequently rent cars
-
Good for Costco and No Frills shoppers
Cons
-
So-so earn rates relative to its annual fee
-
Points have low redemption value compared to other travel rewards programs
-
Charges foreign transaction fees
-
Relatively high minimum income requirements
Eligibility
Excellent
Recommended Credit Score
$80,000
Required Annual Personal Income
$150,000
Required Annual Household Income
Recommended Credit Score
Excellent
Required Annual Personal Income
$80,000
Required Annual Household Income
$150,000
5x
Earn 5x the points for every $1 spent on eligible travel purchases*
3x
Earn 3x the points for every $1 spent on eligible dining and entertainment purchases and recurring bill payments*
1x
Earn 1 point for every $1 spent everywhere else*
4
Complimentary membership in Mastercard Travel Pass provided by DragonPass, with 4 annual complimentary passes
Earn 5x the points for every $1 spent on eligible travel purchases*
5x
Earn 3x the points for every $1 spent on eligible dining and entertainment purchases and recurring bill payments*
3x
Earn 1 point for every $1 spent everywhere else*
1x
Complimentary membership in Mastercard Travel Pass provided by DragonPass, with 4 annual complimentary passes
4
20.99%
Purchase APR
23.99%
Balance Transfer Rate 21.99% for Quebec residents
23.99%
Cash Advance APR
$150
Annual Fee first year waived
2.5%
Foreign Transaction Fee
Purchase APR
20.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
23.99%
Cash Advance APR
23.99%
Annual Fee
$150
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.5%
*Terms and conditions apply.
BMO is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click on the Apply now link for the most up to date information.
Best card for travel points in Canada with accelerated earning
American Express Cobalt® Card
4.9
up to 15k pts
Welcome offerFair
Suggested credit scoreEarn up to 15,000 Welcome Bonus Membership Rewards® points* – that’s up to $150 in value.
Pros
-
High earn rates (up to 5% return on spending!)
-
Flexible month-by-month fee structure
-
Free supplementary cards
-
1:1 points transfer with selected hotels, airlines and frequent flyer programs
Cons
-
Accelerated earn rates only apply to purchases in Canada (not to purchases made abroad)
-
Amex has a more limited merchant acceptance rate than Visa and Mastercard
-
Slightly higher than average annual fee
Eligibility
Fair
Recommended Credit Score
$0
Required Annual Personal Income
$0
Required Annual Household Income
Recommended Credit Score
Fair
Required Annual Personal Income
$0
Required Annual Household Income
$0
5x
the points on eligible eats & drinks purchases in Canada
3x
the points on eligible streaming subscriptions in Canada
2x
the points on eligible gas, transit & ride share in Canada
1x
the points on everything else
1
additional Membership Rewards point for every $1 you charge on eligible hotel or car rental bookings made with American Express Travel
$100 USD
Get up to $100 USD hotel credit to use on amenities like dining, spa or other leisure facilities when charged to the room
the points on eligible eats & drinks purchases in Canada
5x
the points on eligible streaming subscriptions in Canada
3x
the points on eligible gas, transit & ride share in Canada
2x
the points on everything else
1x
additional Membership Rewards point for every $1 you charge on eligible hotel or car rental bookings made with American Express Travel
1
Get up to $100 USD hotel credit to use on amenities like dining, spa or other leisure facilities when charged to the room
$100 USD
21.99%
Purchase APR
21.99%
Cash Advance APR
$155.88
Annual Fee 12.99/month
2.5%
Foreign Transaction Fee 2.5% of the transaction in CDN
Purchase APR
21.99%
Cash Advance APR
21.99%
Annual Fee
$155.88
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.5%
Pros
-
High earn rates (up to 5% return on spending!)
-
Flexible month-by-month fee structure
-
Free supplementary cards
-
1:1 points transfer with selected hotels, airlines and frequent flyer programs
Cons
-
Accelerated earn rates only apply to purchases in Canada (not to purchases made abroad)
-
Amex has a more limited merchant acceptance rate than Visa and Mastercard
-
Slightly higher than average annual fee
Eligibility
Fair
Recommended Credit Score
$0
Required Annual Personal Income
$0
Required Annual Household Income
Recommended Credit Score
Fair
Required Annual Personal Income
$0
Required Annual Household Income
$0
5x
the points on eligible eats & drinks purchases in Canada
3x
the points on eligible streaming subscriptions in Canada
2x
the points on eligible gas, transit & ride share in Canada
1x
the points on everything else
1
additional Membership Rewards point for every $1 you charge on eligible hotel or car rental bookings made with American Express Travel
$100 USD
Get up to $100 USD hotel credit to use on amenities like dining, spa or other leisure facilities when charged to the room
the points on eligible eats & drinks purchases in Canada
5x
the points on eligible streaming subscriptions in Canada
3x
the points on eligible gas, transit & ride share in Canada
2x
the points on everything else
1x
additional Membership Rewards point for every $1 you charge on eligible hotel or car rental bookings made with American Express Travel
1
Get up to $100 USD hotel credit to use on amenities like dining, spa or other leisure facilities when charged to the room
$100 USD
21.99%
Purchase APR
21.99%
Cash Advance APR
$155.88
Annual Fee 12.99/month
2.5%
Foreign Transaction Fee 2.5% of the transaction in CDN
Purchase APR
21.99%
Cash Advance APR
21.99%
Annual Fee
$155.88
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.5%
Contact American Express for the most up-to-date referral bonus figures.
American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, (I/we) may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.
Best travel rewards credit card for no foreign transaction fees
Scotiabank Gold American Express®
4.8
up to 45K pts
Welcome offerVery Good
Suggested credit scoreEarn up to $950* in value in the first 12 months, including up to 45,000 bonus Scene+ points and first year annual fee waived.
Expires
Jan 3, 2025
Pros
-
Lots of daily spend options to earn multiplied point bonuses
-
Swanky Amex perks like Front of the Line presale concert tickets
-
Save on foreign transaction fees when abroad
-
Fantastic insurance coverage, especially for travel
Cons
-
Relatively low-value welcome bonus
-
$120 annual fee that chews into your point value substantially
-
Scene points redeem poorly for travel
Eligibility
Very Good
Recommended Credit Score
Recommended Credit Score
Very Good
6x
Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshco, Foodland and more
5x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on dining, food delivery and other eligible grocery stores. Includes popular food delivery and food subscriptions.
5x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend in Canada eligible entertainment purposes. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores.
3x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible gas and daily transit options. Includes rideshares, buses, subway, taxis and more
3x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible select streaming services
1x
Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases
Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshco, Foodland and more
6x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on dining, food delivery and other eligible grocery stores. Includes popular food delivery and food subscriptions.
5x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend in Canada eligible entertainment purposes. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores.
5x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible gas and daily transit options. Includes rideshares, buses, subway, taxis and more
3x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible select streaming services
3x
Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases
1x
20.99%
Purchase APR
22.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
$120
Annual Fee $29 for each supplementary card
0%
Foreign Transaction Fee
Purchase APR
20.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
22.99%
Annual Fee
$120
Foreign Transaction Fee
0%
Pros
-
Lots of daily spend options to earn multiplied point bonuses
-
Swanky Amex perks like Front of the Line presale concert tickets
-
Save on foreign transaction fees when abroad
-
Fantastic insurance coverage, especially for travel
Cons
-
Relatively low-value welcome bonus
-
$120 annual fee that chews into your point value substantially
-
Scene points redeem poorly for travel
Eligibility
Very Good
Recommended Credit Score
Recommended Credit Score
Very Good
6x
Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshco, Foodland and more
5x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on dining, food delivery and other eligible grocery stores. Includes popular food delivery and food subscriptions.
5x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend in Canada eligible entertainment purposes. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores.
3x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible gas and daily transit options. Includes rideshares, buses, subway, taxis and more
3x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible select streaming services
1x
Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases
Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshco, Foodland and more
6x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on dining, food delivery and other eligible grocery stores. Includes popular food delivery and food subscriptions.
5x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend in Canada eligible entertainment purposes. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores.
5x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible gas and daily transit options. Includes rideshares, buses, subway, taxis and more
3x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible select streaming services
3x
Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases
1x
20.99%
Purchase APR
22.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
$120
Annual Fee $29 for each supplementary card
0%
Foreign Transaction Fee
Purchase APR
20.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
22.99%
Annual Fee
$120
Foreign Transaction Fee
0%
Conditions Apply. Visit here for the Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card to learn more.
*See Card Provider's website and Card Application for complete card details, terms and current offers. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accuracy of information.
Best Canadian travel credit card for no-fee rewards
American Express® Green Card
3.7
earn 10,000 pts
Welcome offerGood
Suggested credit scoreEarn a Welcome Bonus of 10,000 Membership Rewards® points – that’s $100 in value
Pros
-
No annual fee
-
No income requirements (unlike many other no-fee cards)
-
Welcome bonus up to 10,000 points (a $100 value)
-
American Express® Experiences
Cons
-
The card only offers basic extended warranty and purchase protection insurance. No travel insurance or rental car coverage
-
Some places might not accept American Express®. However, most major retailers do (more small businesses are starting to as well)
-
Fewer perks: No specific benefits for travel or dining and no accelerated earning rates on grocery
-
Lower earn rates: The reward earn rates are lower than some other no-fee credit cards
Eligibility
Good
Recommended Credit Score
$0
Required Annual Personal Income
$0
Required Annual Household Income
Recommended Credit Score
Good
Required Annual Personal Income
$0
Required Annual Household Income
$0
1x
the points on Card purchases
1
additional Membership Rewards® point for every $1 you charge to your American Express® Green Card on eligible hotel or car rental bookings made with American Express Travel
the points on Card purchases
1x
additional Membership Rewards® point for every $1 you charge to your American Express® Green Card on eligible hotel or car rental bookings made with American Express Travel
1
21.99%
Purchase APR
21.99%
Cash Advance APR
$0
Annual Fee No annual fee
2.5%
Foreign Transaction Fee
Purchase APR
21.99%
Cash Advance APR
21.99%
Annual Fee
$0
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.5%
Pros
-
No annual fee
-
No income requirements (unlike many other no-fee cards)
-
Welcome bonus up to 10,000 points (a $100 value)
-
American Express® Experiences
Cons
-
The card only offers basic extended warranty and purchase protection insurance. No travel insurance or rental car coverage
-
Some places might not accept American Express®. However, most major retailers do (more small businesses are starting to as well)
-
Fewer perks: No specific benefits for travel or dining and no accelerated earning rates on grocery
-
Lower earn rates: The reward earn rates are lower than some other no-fee credit cards
Eligibility
Good
Recommended Credit Score
$0
Required Annual Personal Income
$0
Required Annual Household Income
Recommended Credit Score
Good
Required Annual Personal Income
$0
Required Annual Household Income
$0
1x
the points on Card purchases
1
additional Membership Rewards® point for every $1 you charge to your American Express® Green Card on eligible hotel or car rental bookings made with American Express Travel
the points on Card purchases
1x
additional Membership Rewards® point for every $1 you charge to your American Express® Green Card on eligible hotel or car rental bookings made with American Express Travel
1
21.99%
Purchase APR
21.99%
Cash Advance APR
$0
Annual Fee No annual fee
2.5%
Foreign Transaction Fee
Purchase APR
21.99%
Cash Advance APR
21.99%
Annual Fee
$0
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.5%
Contact American Express for the most up-to-date referral bonus figures.
American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, (I/we) may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.
Best travel card for USD cash back
Rogers Red World Elite® Mastercard®
4.2
Excellent
Suggested credit scoreto receive the latest news, tips and offers by email
Pros
-
Lucrative cash back rates on USD and CAD purchases, especially for Rogers, Fido or Shaw customers
-
No annual fee with valuable insurance benefits
-
Competitive against foreign transaction fee cards
-
Convenient cash back redemption options
-
Redemption bonus of 1.5x more cash back every time you redeem for Rogers, Fido or Shaw purchases
-
Travel insurance perks and airport lounge access
Cons
-
High income requirement: $80,000 personal or $150,000 household
-
Foreign transaction fee applies
-
Limited redemption options for statement credits
Eligibility
Excellent
Recommended Credit Score
$80,000
Required Annual Personal Income
$150,000
Required Annual Household Income
Recommended Credit Score
Excellent
Required Annual Personal Income
$80,000
Required Annual Household Income
$150,000
3%
Earn 3% unlimited cash back on purchases made in US dollars
2%
Earn 2% unlimited cash back on all eligible non-US dollar purchases if you have 1 qualifying service with Rogers, Fido or Shaw
1.5%
Earn 1.5% unlimited cash back on everything else
1.5x Cash Back
Get 1.5x more cash back every time you redeem for Rogers, Fido or Shaw purchases
Earn 3% unlimited cash back on purchases made in US dollars
3%
Earn 2% unlimited cash back on all eligible non-US dollar purchases if you have 1 qualifying service with Rogers, Fido or Shaw
2%
Earn 1.5% unlimited cash back on everything else
1.5%
Get 1.5x more cash back every time you redeem for Rogers, Fido or Shaw purchases
1.5x Cash Back
20.99%
Purchase APR
22.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
$0
Annual Fee No annual fee
2.5%
Foreign Transaction Fee 2.5% of the transaction in CDN
Purchase APR
20.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
22.99%
Annual Fee
$0
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.5%
Pros
-
Lucrative cash back rates on USD and CAD purchases, especially for Rogers, Fido or Shaw customers
-
No annual fee with valuable insurance benefits
-
Competitive against foreign transaction fee cards
-
Convenient cash back redemption options
-
Redemption bonus of 1.5x more cash back every time you redeem for Rogers, Fido or Shaw purchases
-
Travel insurance perks and airport lounge access
Cons
-
High income requirement: $80,000 personal or $150,000 household
-
Foreign transaction fee applies
-
Limited redemption options for statement credits
Eligibility
Excellent
Recommended Credit Score
$80,000
Required Annual Personal Income
$150,000
Required Annual Household Income
Recommended Credit Score
Excellent
Required Annual Personal Income
$80,000
Required Annual Household Income
$150,000
3%
Earn 3% unlimited cash back on purchases made in US dollars
2%
Earn 2% unlimited cash back on all eligible non-US dollar purchases if you have 1 qualifying service with Rogers, Fido or Shaw
1.5%
Earn 1.5% unlimited cash back on everything else
1.5x Cash Back
Get 1.5x more cash back every time you redeem for Rogers, Fido or Shaw purchases
Earn 3% unlimited cash back on purchases made in US dollars
3%
Earn 2% unlimited cash back on all eligible non-US dollar purchases if you have 1 qualifying service with Rogers, Fido or Shaw
2%
Earn 1.5% unlimited cash back on everything else
1.5%
Get 1.5x more cash back every time you redeem for Rogers, Fido or Shaw purchases
1.5x Cash Back
20.99%
Purchase APR
22.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
$0
Annual Fee No annual fee
2.5%
Foreign Transaction Fee 2.5% of the transaction in CDN
Purchase APR
20.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
22.99%
Annual Fee
$0
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.5%
Compare the top travel credit cards in Canada
Credit card | Annual fee | Min. personal income required | Learn more |
---|---|---|---|
CIBC Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card
|
$139 (one-time annual fee rebate) | $60,000 | Apply now |
Scotiabank Platinum American Express® Card
|
$399 | $12,000 | Apply now |
CIBC Aventura® Gold Visa* Card
|
$139 (First year annual fee rebate!†) | $15,000 | Apply now |
BMO Ascend™ World Elite®* Mastercard®
|
$150 (first year waived) | $80,000 | Apply now |
American Express Cobalt® Card
|
$155.88 (12.99/month) | None | Apply now |
Rogers™ World Elite® Mastercard® | $0 | $80,000 | Apply now |
Scotiabank Gold American Express®
|
$120 (waived for the first year) | No minimum income requirements presented; please see Scotiabank. | Apply now |
Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite* Card
|
$150 | $60,000 | Apply now |
American Express® Green Card
|
$0 | N/A | Apply now |
TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card
|
$139 ( annual fee rebate for the first year†) | $60,000 | Apply now |
†Terms and conditions apply.
†TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card annual fee rebate: To receive the first-year annual fee rebate, you must activate your Card and make your first Purchase on the Account within the first 3 months after Account opening and you must add your Additional Cardholders by January 6, 2025.
How we choose the best travel credit cards
Choosing the very best travel credit cards is tricky. That's because travel rewards are distinctly different from other reward types because they emphasize points and tangible benefits like lounge access, welcome bonuses, priority boarding, free baggage, and more.
To identify the best travel cards, our methodology focuses on the critical features that Canadians value, including insurance coverage, foreign transaction fees, lounge access and rewards. We carefully evaluate each card, considering fees, interest rates, and welcome bonuses while keeping an eye on the types of perks travellers crave. Things like free bags, priority boarding, and lounge access are values we carefully weigh against the basics to identify cards that provide significantly more value than is charged by the annual fee.
How to choose the best travel credit card for you
When comparing one travel credit card to the next, be mindful of the card features that are most relevant for your particular lifestyle and spending habits. Do you regularly fly to all corners of the globe? It might be worthwhile to get a card with free airport lounge access, so you can relax during long layovers. Do you prefer to travel with your partner? You might single out cards that offer a free annual companion fare.
There are credit card features purpose-built for all lifestyles. The benefits listed below are common for many of the most competitive travel cards in Canada, and it’s a good idea to review them before applying for a new card.
Compare each travel credit card's sign-up bonus
A large, lump-sum bonus of miles or rewards points is a great reason to apply for a new credit rewards card.
Just keep in mind that many sign-up bonuses are contingent upon the cardholder spending a certain amount in the first few months of cardmembership. But it’s usually worthwhile to try to meet this minimum spending requirement, as a big sign-up bonus might be enough for a short or long-haul flight.
Some sign-up bonuses might also waive the card’s first year annual fee, so those looking for value upfront should prioritize this feature.
Read: Best credit card sign-up bonuses
Compare earn rates for travel credit cards
One of the most important features of any travel credit card, and the feature with the most longevity, is the card’s earn rate. Look for a card that earns miles or rewards points rapidly, and in the categories where you most frequently spend (e.g. groceries, gas, etc.).
You might also want to keep your eye out for a card with a high ‘flat’ earn rate, meaning it earns rapidly on all spending you do, not just in specific categories.
Read: Best rewards credit cards
Consider the redemption flexibility for each travel rewards credit card
Some travel credit cards earn miles and membership reward points quickly, but the process of redeeming those miles and rewards might be a headache.
For instance, what if you can only redeem within one rewards program, which has a limited flight selection? Or what if you can redeem rewards for the core price of a flight, but not for additional flight taxes and fees?
When selecting a credit rewards card, it’s important to pay attention to the rewards program’s flexibility when redeeming. It’s equally important to understand the real-world value of points or miles depending on what you’re redeeming them for.
Read: The Canadian loyalty program bible
Compare annual fees
Paying an annual fee for the privilege of using a credit card can be annoying, so depending on your perspective you may want to prioritize travel credit cards with no fee, or those with perks that you know deliver equivalent or greater value to the card’s annual fee.
There’s a range of great travel cards in both camps, from cards with a $0 fee that still earn some miles or rewards, to those with fees reaching $900, but that come with an enormous amount of built-in value, justifying the high annual fee.
We don’t feature cards that can’t justify their annual fee, and when issuers increase a card’s annual fee without a commensurate increase of a value package, we call them out on it.
Read: Best no fee credit cards
Foreign transaction fees
This feature is appreciated most by travellers who often fly abroad or shop online at sites that don’t process CA$.
Foreign transaction fees are typically 2.50% of any purchase not in CA$, and they are charged by the vast majority of Canadian credit cards. Paying with one of the rare credit cards that waive these fees can save quite a bundle throughout a trip.
Read: Best credit cards with no foreign transaction fees
Compare travel credit cards' lounge access
It’s no fun to suffer through uncomfortable airport benches, spotty Wi-Fi and expensive food for hours on end. Access to an airport lounge, of which most airports have at least one, will save these pains and more—and are worthwhile even for a short time.
Membership programs like Priority Pass and LoungeKey offer access to worldwide lounges, over 1,000 each, and they come for free with a number of travel cards. Some cards even grant a set number of free lounge entry passes each year.
Those who spend a lot of time in airports, or who simply detest the crowds, should look for this perk.
Read: Best credit cards with lounge access
Does it come with travel insurance?
Your Canadian health insurance is useless once you travel overseas—and much of it won’t be applicable if you even travel outside your home province. That’s why it’s essential to make sure you have special insurance to cover you in the event of illness or injury while travelling.
You can buy a policy individually from an insurer (see our guide to the Best Travel Insurance in Canada if you opt for that route), or you can look for a credit card that comes with a fleet of travel insurance covering overseas medical emergencies, flight cancellations, interruptions, delays, baggage, rental cars and more.
Read: Best credit cards for travel insurance
Companion fare
Travellers who like to fly with a spouse, friend or relative on trips can use a companion fare or voucher to discount the price of that companion’s second ticket. This might be an annual perk, giving a credit card substantial value over time.
Companion fares are usually secondary perks on upper-tier travel cards with other appealing features as well, like a good earn rate, a large introductory bonus, or insurance.
Read: Best credit cards for companion tickets
Compare processors and acceptance
A card’s payment processor—Visa, Mastercard, or Amex—can influence where and how the credit card can be used.
For instance, Amex cards often feature superior travel rewards and privileges, but some merchants might accept only Visa or Mastercard. The best Amex cards are often designated as ‘charge cards’ rather than credit cards, meaning that a cardholder must pay off the card’s balance in full every month, lest they be charged a very high penalty.
We recommend readers get an Amex card for its superb earn rates and features, but to always carry a Visa or Mastercard as well to pay at merchants that don’t accept Amex.
Travel credit card vs. hotel credit card: What’s the difference?
A hotel credit card is a credit card that focuses on maximizing your rewards for your favourite hotel chain. This means that you’ll be earning points towards free hotel stays, meals offered through on-site restaurants, and complimentary late checkouts.
However, some hotel credit cards give similar perks to travel credit cards, in the way that you can transfer your points to several participating airline rewards programs. So, while travel credit cards will likely offer a better conversion rate for points to travel rewards, you still have the potential to earn many of the same travel perks with a hotel card.
Our favourite hotel credit card is The Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card. Not only can Marriott Bonvoy® reward points be redeemed at more than 7,000 hotels worldwide with no blackout dates within the Marriott, Ritz-Carlton and Delta families, but you can also transfer your points to more than 40 participating airline rewards programs.
Should you consider a US dollar credit card?
Many central banks offer US dollar credit cards for those who frequently spend south of the border in the United States. These cards enable you to make purchases in US dollars without credit card foreign currency conversion fees, ideal for those who live part of the year in the US, spend online in USD, or have a US dollar bank account.
As getting a US credit card requires a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), this becomes a major barrier for Canadian citizens and permanent residents to access competitive products offered in the US. Having a domestic credit card that offers many of the same features and perks will allow Canadians to save on foreign exchange fees and conversion rates along the way.
What happens to your points if you cancel a travel credit card?
Say you’ve spent a good amount of time accumulating your travel points over the past several years, and are now ready to cancel your travel credit card—where do your rewards points go? Will you lose them or are they yours to keep and store for future use?
While the answer to this question can vary depending on the terms of your credit card and the credit card provider, your airline rewards are usually safe. Usually, your rewards are deposited in a frequent flier account, which is separate from your credit card, should it close for whatever reason.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that you can lose access to your points if you don’t use them fast enough. Some frequent-flier programs will expire your points if there isn’t activity in your account for a long period of time, so check the fine print that came along with your account.
FAQs: Best travel credit cards in Canada
American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information click the Apply now link. Conditions apply. BMO is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click on the Apply now link for the most up to date information.
Nathan Siegel has a professional and educational passion for finance, and is a long-time writer for GreedyRates. He follows trends in the Canadian banking sector, compares competing products, and pours over fine print to make personal finance choices easier for Canadian consumers. In his spare time he loves running, swimming, and dogs of all kinds.
Cory Santos is a finance writer, editor and credit card expert with nearly a decade of experience in personal finance. Cory joined Wise Publishing from BestCards, with bylines in numerous print and digital publications across North America, including the Miami Herald, St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Debt.ca, AOL, MSN and Medium as well as financial podcasts like KOFE Talk.
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